City’s Newest Marina Opens

CHICAGO (CBS) — Chicago’s newest lakefront attraction opens next month. Even though it’s right off Lake Shore Drive at 31st Street, you may drive by it each day and not even know about this hidden gem.

CBS 2’s Dorothy Tucker went inside the city’s new marina.

It has room for 1,000 boats, but it’s not just for boaters. In fact, there are many more attractions for bikers, runners and families.

Less congestion is just one of the reasons Steve O’Malley has moved his boat from Montrose to the new 31st harbor.

“The launches are beautiful. The piers are wider here,” he says. “Everything is beautiful.”

It’s also a little more expensive compared to North Side harbors by a couple hundred dollars, but still less than downtown harbors.

It’s sure to be a hit with the community. There’s a beautiful picnic area with a gorgeous view of the city. A concession stand opens in two weeks, and a store is already operating.

The highlight for joggers and bikers: more lanes and an underpass.

The children’s laughter tells you what they think about the state of the art playground. And wait until they see the misting station.

Melva Godwin is among those who feel South Side harbors and parks were often neglected in the past. The new harbor is welcome surprise.

“It’s great to be able to have a place in our community that our children can go and enjoy themselves,” she says.

Dorothy Tucker has served as a reporter for CBS 2 Chicago since 1984. Currently she reports for the station’s 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM weekday newscasts. Tucker also serves as the station’s consumer reporter, covering issues and trends to help...